Applications strong for Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme

The Government says applications for the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme have increased sharply.

This follows a nationwide public awareness campaign at the end of August. Since then, there has been an increase of 360% in weekly applications, from an average of 14 per week to 58.

Those who spent time in Mother and Baby Institutions are encouraged to look into the scheme. Applications are confidential, with information and support available throughout the entire process.

Information is available around the country at primary care centres, libraries, nursing homes, post offices and Citizen Information offices.

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley said: “I welcome the strong response to this next phase of the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme awareness campaign, and the increase in applications and enquiries in recent weeks.

I want people to know that they can contact the Scheme in confidence, with information, guidance and support available throughout the process.

The Scheme will remain open until March 2029, giving potential applicants time to find out more, consider their options and, if they wish, make an application. I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible, or who is supporting them, to visit paymentscheme.ie or contact the Freephone service.”

The campaign will continue to run for 12 weeks, throughout national and local media, with applications open until 2029.